Psychometric evaluation of questionnaire to assess the perception and knowledge about predisposing factors related to cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL)

Assessing the knowledge of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) and associated risk factors among endemic communities is important for designing its management and control. Knowledge of CL-related factors and how CL is perceived is important in designing public health interventions against this disease in such endemic communities. The present study aimed to develop a questionnaire to evaluate the perceptions and knowledge of predisposing factors related to CL among patients with CL. Data obtained from a cross-sectional survey conducted among a cohort of 56 patients with CL were collected to evaluate the assessment questionnaire developed to determine CL-related factors. The internal consistency reliability and validity of the instrument were measured via the use of Cronbach's alpha test, whereas the dimensionality and item relationships were established via the ICLUST algorithm. Seven clusters with alpha values equal to or greater than 0.7 were generated corresponding to knowledge about the sandfly vector, knowledge and perception of the CL, knowledge about the clinical presentation of the CL, disease transmission and method of vector control, nature/household level and presence of vegetation around the house, how to differentiate vectors from mosquitoes, and health status and how to seek medical treatment. Finally, a 21-item questionnaire that is both reliable and valid was developed. CL perception and knowledge about its predisposing factors are independent of gender, education, family size and socioeconomic status.